Dishin’ With Debbie-Zoodle Pad Thai
Y’all know how much I love to cook and experiment with lots of different kinds of foods. Sometimes that can get me into trouble when it comes to staying on track with a healthy food plan. On the flip side, I’m learning I can also use that passion for cooking to modify my favorite dishes into healthier versions that are just as delicious. About six weeks ago we started on a weight loss journey with PHD Weight Loss. I’m pleased to say I’ve lost 20 pounds so far, and I’m loving the way I feel. With their guidance and suggestions, I put my touches on a dish we’ve eaten for years. It’s a version of Chicken Pad Thai in which I swapped out regular noodles for spiralized zucchini “zoodles.” They are actually delicious, and we’ve used them in several dishes. I’ve also realized I don’t have to drown everything in heavy sauces to get yummy results. I’ve been ramping up the spices and fresh herbs to end up with flavorful dishes that pack a punch without all the stuff I don’t need. It’s been an eye-opening discovery, and I’m having a blast learning! I hope you’ll enjoy this Zoodle Pad Thai as much as we did!
INGREDIENTS:
* 1 1/2 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)
* 1-2 zucchini (to make your “zoodles”)
* 1 1/2 tablespoons coconut aminos OR Tamari (If not using fish sauce you can do 3 T of this)
* 2 tablespoons erythritol or stevia
* 1/8-1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to taste
* 2-3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
* 1-2 tablespoons coconut oil for cooking
* 2 cloves garlic minced
* 2 lb fresh shrimp or chicken
* 2 eggs lightly beaten
* 1 c. bean sprouts
GARNISH:
* 3 green onions finely sliced
* ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves or basil (diced)
* lime wedges for garnish (optional)
Directions:
Mix the sauce ingredients together (fish sauce if using, aminos, stevia, cayenne pepper and lime juice). I prepped this ahead of time for a quick assembly later. Heat a pan and add coconut oil. Add garlic and saute until it becomes fragrant. Add chicken or shrimp, cooking until just done. Push the chicken or shrimp to the side as you pour in the beaten eggs. Cook just until scrambled. Add in the prepared sauce and toss everything together. Add in zoodles and toss together for 1-2 minutes. Feel free to toss in bean sprouts if you’d like. Garnish with green onions and cilantro. I added a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. A squeeze of fresh lime is essential in my opinion. Enjoy!